Sheila Gaff signs with UFC, faces Sara McMann in debut

Sheila Gaff, also known as “The German Tank,” is ready to roll over opponents inside of the octagon. Her first opponent will be Olympic silver medalist Sara McMann at UFC 159, April 27.

Gaff, who currently has a record of 10-4-1, is the latest fighter to join the UFC’s women’s bantamweight division. She is currently riding a three-fight winning streak that all ended in first-round finishes.

For McMann, who is undefeated at 6-0, Gaff will be unlike any opponent the medalist has faced in her career so far. While she is used to facing grapplers like herself, McMann has never stepped in the cage with a striker like The German Tank, who has a total of six first-round knockouts.

In addition to her striking, Gaff has four submission wins within the first round. Still, McMann has an excellent wrestling background and has been able to neutralize her opponents to grind out a decision. In this fight, she should focus on taking Gaff to the canvas if she wants to avoid The German Tank’s powerful hands.

While she has mostly competed in Europe, Gaff will make an exciting addition to the women’s division. Her striking will be a great test for not only a wrestler like McMann, but also other experienced grapplers like Alexis Davis. Gaff would also be a great opponent for Sarah Kaufman, who is regarded as one of the best strikers in women’s MMA.

How do you think Gaff will do in her fight against McMann? Answer with a comment below or send a tweet to @alstover with the hashtag #RantMMA.